The White Pine Ski and Summer Resort near Pinedale has received a big investment in its future. The 363-acre ski resort in the Bridger Teton National Forest is being bought by Bondurant billionaire and businessman Joe Ricketts.
White Pine announced the change in ownership Thursday. Ricketts plans to complete the purchase at the end of the 2024 ski season in April.
“My hope is to add improvements that will ensure White Pine remains a cherished destination for all of Sublette to enjoy for years to come,” Ricketts said.
Downhill And Uphill
Opened in 1940, the White Pine Ski and Summer Resort has two lifts, nearly 30 runs, rustic accommodations and miles of Nordic trails for winter activity and summer hiking. However, the resort has faced significant struggles in recent years.
The slopes of White Pine were covered in black ash July 11, 2019, when the resort’s main ski lodge was destroyed by fire. In 2020, the resort was listed for sale and has stayed on the market until Thursday’s announcement.
“Faced with the prospect of shutting down the resort, we looked for a buyer who is capable and committed to restoring the lodge, enhancing the mountain’s amenities to their full potential, and investing in the vibrant communities of Sublette County,” said Alan Blackburn, current owner of White Pine.
Ricketts said he is now fully and financially invested in White Pine’s future success. He has assembled a new advisory board that will “strategically guide the business, ensuring its success in both the short term and long term.”
“I feel good about keeping White Pine in our community and look forward to the recreational expertise the board of advisors and officers will contribute,” Ricketts said. “Their guidance will be instrumental in managing the mountain effectively in both the immediate future and over the long term.”
The primary focus of future improvements will reportedly be White Pine’s snowmaking capacity and infrastructure. After all, the most important thing for any ski resort is ensuring there’s plenty of pristine snow to ski on.
To accomplish this, Ricketts has started meeting with the U.S. Forest Service about extending future ski seasons with enhanced snowmaking. Other goals include improving the existing infrastructure, but details have yet to be released.
Pinedale has treasured the White Pine Ski and Summer Resort for decades, and it was once ranked as one of Wyoming’s best resorts for beginner skiers.
As Alan Blackburn and his wife Robyn end their chapter of ownership at White Pine, they said Ricketts will provide the investment and knowledge needed to revitalize the resort.
“Owning White Pine has been an honor for my wife and me,” said Blackburn. “This mountain offers outstanding recreational opportunities for our community. We are confident that Joe is deeply dedicated to this cause.”
White Pine Ski and Summer Resort near Pinedale, Wyoming, is being bought by Wyoming billionaire Joe Ricketts. (Courtesy White Pine Ski and Summer Resort, via Facebook) 
White Pine Ski and Summer Resort near Pinedale, Wyoming, is being bought by Wyoming billionaire Joe Ricketts. (Courtesy White Pine Ski and Summer Resort, via Facebook) 
White Pine Ski and Summer Resort near Pinedale, Wyoming, is being bought by Wyoming billionaire Joe Ricketts. (Courtesy White Pine Ski and Summer Resort, via Facebook) 
White Pine Ski and Summer Resort near Pinedale, Wyoming, is being bought by Wyoming billionaire Joe Ricketts. (Courtesy White Pine Ski and Summer Resort, via Facebook)
Andrew Rossi can be reached at arossi@cowboystatedaily.com.
